Arizona high schooler makes a name for himself in the international chess world
CHANDLER – A nationally ranked chess player from BASIS Chandler is climbing up the international ranks. Sandeep Sethuraman will try to lead his team to a third state chess championship while preparing for the U.S. Masters.
Civility in elections declining as political polarization rises, but there may be hope
PHOENIX – “Coward.” “Conspiracy theorist.” “Psychopath.” These are just a few of the insults hurled at opposing candidates in Arizona political races this election season. Experts say election civility is declining as political polarization rises, and the Arizona gubernatorial race between Kari Lake and Katie Hobbs is a prime example.
Professional Bull Riders new team series competition takes bull riding to new heights
GLENDALE – The Arizona Ridge Riders hosted the final competition of PBR’s inaugural team season. Although they lost, the event was a huge success and a turning point in PBR. The stadium was packed and the riders put on a stellar show. Jaws dropped as many riders were seen running away or being stepped on by the bulls. Austin Gamblers rider Ezekiel Mitchell had a big weekend and is a born cowboy.
‘YOU ROCK!!!’: Digital license plate messages let drivers express themselves
LOS ANGELES – Digital license plates are pricey compared to the regular metal plates, but they’re fun, have some practical value and could save motorists from that dreadful annual trek to their state’s department of motor vehicles.
Hamilton boys golf seeks four-peat in Arizona state championships
PHOENIX – The Hamilton golf team has won the Arizona state championship three years in a row. With junior star Vincent Cervantes leading the way, the Huskies look to make it a four-peat with Brophy right on their tail.
Alon Leichman uses past to propel next generation of pitchers in Arizona Fall League
SCOTTSDALE – Alon Leichman, pitching coach of the Tacoma Rainiers (Triple-A affiliate of the Seattle Mariners), has had two Tommy John Surgeries and almost needed a third during his time at UCSD. Not wanting to give up on his playing career, Leichman played for Team Israel, coaching and pitching across international competition.
Heat deaths hit record in Maricopa County, but there are ways to stay safe
PHOENIX – Higher temperatures in Maricopa County have led to a record number of heat-associated deaths, according to a report released this month. Experts say people – visitors and Arizonans alike – should reconsider how to prepare for the heat to stay safe while outdoors.
From homeschool to No. 1 in the state: Pinnacle’s Samantha Olson’s unconventional golf journey
PHOENIX – Pinnacle girl’s golfer Samantha Olson is unlike her teammates because she takes online classes instead of attending in-person. She uses remote learning to maximize her time on the golf course to improve and prepare for AIA tournaments and matches.
Election officials probe alleged voter intimidation at ballot drop box
WASHINGTON - Election officials reacted swiftly to reported voter intimidation this week at a Mesa ballot drop box, condemning the action and reassuring voters that they are working with law enforcement to address such incidents.
It’s a start: Phoenix Suns turn page on controversial offseason with win against Dallas Mavericks in season opener
PHOENIX – The Phoenix Suns avenged last season’s Game 7 loss with a victory over Dallas. But how will this affect the rest of the Suns’ season?
Gila River tribe agrees to conserve water in return for federal compensation
The Gila River Indian Community has announced plans to conserve a large portion of its water supplies over the next three years and is seeking payment from a new federal program designed to incentivize such reductions.
Mets prospect Brandon McIlwain sees Arizona Fall League payoff from his years in football
SCOTTSDALE – New York Mets prospect Brandon McIlwain was a quarterback at Cal in college and also played at the University of South Carolina as a baseball player before pursuing baseball full time. While he was drafted by the Miami Marlins in 2019, he opted to return to college and signed with the Mets in 2020.
